Hello,
I've ran into a problem with my 2000 E320, whenever I start the car the ABS/BAS/ESP errors are all off, but as soon as I apply the brakes they all suddenly come on. Can anyone offer some insight into this? If it makes a difference, very occasionally these lights will not come on at all for my entire drive (I would say about 98% of the time the lights come on, but as I said, very rarely I will drive all day and they won't show up).

I've done a little research and I've heard that the ABS being the only problem can also trigger these other errors, don't know if there is any truth to this.

Hello,
I've ran into a problem with my 2000 E320, whenever I start the car the ABS/BAS/ESP errors are all off, but as soon as I apply the brakes they all suddenly come on. Can anyone offer some insight into this? If it makes a difference, very occasionally these lights will not come on at all for my entire drive (I would say about 98% of the time the lights come on, but as I said, very rarely I will drive all day and they won't show up).

I've done a little research and I've heard that the ABS being the only problem can also trigger these other errors, don't know if there is any truth to this.

I'm curious what research you did. This is a classic issue with MB cars of this generation, not just the W210. Replace the brake light switch, source it from the dealer to assure quality (the aftermarket ones seem to be quite troublesome and it's not very expensive, around $25) and you should be good to go.

You do want to fix it though. When those lights are on, the systems they represent are disabled, which makes it more likely that you may skid in an emergency situation.

Good luck.

Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy; its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery. (Winston Churchill)

I'm curious what research you did. This is a classic issue with MB cars of this generation, not just the W210. Replace the brake light switch, source it from the dealer to assure quality (the aftermarket ones seem to be quite troublesome and it's not very expensive, around $25) and you should be good to go.

You do want to fix it though. When those lights are on, the systems they represent are disabled, which makes it more likely that you may skid in an emergency situation.

Good luck.

I've just heard it from people now and again when I've talked about this issue. I've had the problem for some time so I've asked around a bit. How sure are you that this is absolutely what is causing it? I certainly agree as the issue is FOR SURE centering around the brakes. I can idle for ages and the lights do not come on until the brakes are pressed. Thanks for the help.

I've just heard it from people now and again when I've talked about this issue. I've had the problem for some time so I've asked around a bit. How sure are you that this is absolutely what is causing it? I certainly agree as the issue is FOR SURE centering around the brakes. I can idle for ages and the lights do not come on until the brakes are pressed. Thanks for the help.

Absolutely. In fact, if I'm wrong, I'll refund the money you paid me for my advice.

****

Okay, let's be serious.

Of course I can't promise you that, and no one here can, at least if they are honest and not a know-it-all turd.

But here is what I do know.

1. 95% of the time, what you have described is the brake light switch. To be clear, it has nothing to do with the brakes themselves (your suspicion), just the switch that trips when you step on the brake pedal.

2. You've lived with this got a while, which means you've been driving the safety equivalent of a 1985 Chevy Celebrity. In the event of an accident that could leave the door open for additional liability on your part.

3. If #2 concerns you, and well it should, this should be your highest priority.

4. A new brake light switch will cost you $22-30 at the dealer (depending on their greed) and 30-60 minutes of your time (depending on your ability) with ordinary tools.

5. Your only other alternative is to continue to ignore it or go pay perhaps several hundred dollars for a system diagnostic...and probably end up with a new brake light switch.

6. You came here seeking advice -- free advice -- from people who at least have some history and knowledge with these cars. If your intent was to simply challenge those who offered advice...well, that usually has a rather chilling effect.

7. If I owned your car, the first thing I'd have done as soon as I had time after those lights popped on would have been to open the trunk and get the brake light switch and replace it. (Yes, they are unreliable enough that I carry one, just waiting for that shoe to drop.)

Ummmm...Good luck.

Socialism is a philosophy of failure, the creed of ignorance, and the gospel of envy; its inherent virtue is the equal sharing of misery. (Winston Churchill)